Business Expansion and Rebranding
BUTEC, a leading specialist contracting group, has announced a significant expansion in Southern Africa, reaffirming its commitment to the region's growth and development. This strategic move involves strengthening existing synergies between the parent company and its subsidiaries, alongside fully rebranding the local companies it acquired in 2022. BUTEC’s business units, which focus on Engineering and Contracting, Electro-mechanical Solutions, Facility Services, and Utility Services, bring a diverse and robust skill set to the local construction and multi-technical services sectors.
Integration and Local Impact
Following the integration and rebranding of its South African acquisitions, Thermaire Investments and Ampair, BUTEC is poised to foster sustainable development and innovation. This move will leverage local resources and create new employment opportunities, adding to the 400-strong workforce already employed locally. BUTEC's commitment to the region is further demonstrated by its investment in local talent and resources, aiming to support South Africa and its neighboring countries, including Botswana, Mozambique, eSwatini, and Zambia.
A Legacy of Excellence
Established more than 60 years ago, BUTEC operates in over 21 countries across the Middle East and Africa, with headquarters in Dubai and Beirut. The company’s extensive experience and broad geographical footprint allow it to offer a wide range of services across various regions. The recent acquisitions in Southern Africa enable BUTEC to extend its services and expertise, reinforcing its position as a major player in the region.
Leadership and Vision
“We are inspired by the potential that South Africa and its Southern African neighbors offer, and by the talent of the local building industry and allied services leaders,” said Fady Abou Jaoude, Director of BUTEC. "As one of Africa’s largest electro-mechanical contractors, facility management, and service providers, we are looking forward to creating shared value with key economic role-players to accelerate the region’s growth, create jobs, and contribute towards the region’s prosperity.”
Rebranding and New Initiatives
As part of its expansion and rebrand, BUTEC has renamed Thermaire Investments, an electro-mechanical solutions provider, under the brand IES, to BUTEC, and Ampair, a facility management and maintenance services provider, to BUTEC Services. The DUCTSHOP brand remains, continuing its focus on high-quality metal and PAL ducting manufacturing, and expanding to specialized steel products at its Johannesburg facility.
Focus on Skills Development
BUTEC is dedicated to developing local talent through its in-house NQF-accredited skills development center, BUTEC Academy. Based in Johannesburg, the academy offers a range of courses and qualifications, bringing a new cohort of well-trained and qualified artisans to the industry each year. “While BUTEC now employs more than 7,500 skilled team members, we remain focused on finding new talent and developing skills in every country we operate,” said Abou Jaoude.
Empowerment and Inclusion
In November 2022, BUTEC launched the Employee Share Trust, dedicated to supporting black female employees. This initiative complements BUTEC's ongoing commitment to South Africa’s national key priorities. Since 2022, BUTEC has invested R7 million in youth employment services programs, creating over 154 job opportunities. Additionally, BUTEC's empowerment initiatives have achieved significant milestones, with the business attaining a B-BBEE level 2 (for BUTEC Pty Ltd) and B-BBEE level 1 (for BUTEC Services Pty Ltd). These efforts highlight BUTEC's dedication to fostering inclusive growth and development across its operations.
Looking Ahead
“We are inspired by the potential that Southern Africa offers, and we’re looking forward to investing in the country and being a part of building its future with our partners,” Abou Jaoude said. As BUTEC continues to expand and innovate, its commitment to supporting Southern Africa’s success remains steadfast. By leveraging its extensive expertise and resources, BUTEC aims to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and development across the region.
